Which type of forensic analysis is commonly used in cases of poisoning?

Which type of forensic analysis is commonly used in cases of poisoning?

• A. Toxicology
• B. Odontology
• C. Entomology
• D. Cytology

Answer: (A)

Toxicology is the field of forensic analysis that specifically deals with the detection and understanding of the effects of toxic substances, including poisons, in the human body. In cases of poisoning, toxicologists analyze biological samples such as blood, urine, and tissues to identify and quantify the presence of harmful substances. This analysis is crucial in determining the cause of death or identifying substances that may have contributed to a person's condition, guiding law enforcement and legal proceedings. In contrast, the other fields mentioned have different focuses that do not directly pertain to the analysis of poisons. Odontology involves the examination of dental records and bite marks, which is useful in identifying victims or perpetrators but not in analyzing toxins. Entomology studies insects, particularly how they can be used to estimate the time of death based on the presence of certain insect species, a method not related to the identification of poisons. Cytology pertains to the examination of cells, which can be relevant in various diagnoses but does not specifically address the unique aspects of toxic substances. These distinctions clarify why toxicology is the appropriate choice in relation to cases of poisoning.

Toxicology is the field of forensic analysis that specifically deals with the detection and understanding of the effects of toxic substances, including poisons, in the human body. In cases of poisoning, toxicologists analyze biological samples such as blood, urine, and tissues to identify and quantify the presence of harmful substances. This analysis is crucial in determining the cause of death or identifying substances that may have contributed to a person's condition, guiding law enforcement and legal proceedings.

In contrast, the other fields mentioned have different focuses that do not directly pertain to the analysis of poisons. Odontology involves the examination of dental records and bite marks, which is useful in identifying victims or perpetrators but not in analyzing toxins. Entomology studies insects, particularly how they can be used to estimate the time of death based on the presence of certain insect species, a method not related to the identification of poisons. Cytology pertains to the examination of cells, which can be relevant in various diagnoses but does not specifically address the unique aspects of toxic substances. These distinctions clarify why toxicology is the appropriate choice in relation to cases of poisoning.